Stanley's funeral service will begin at 6PM; attendees are being asked to arrive by 5PM. Those with questions can call 276-926-4646 for further information.

Stanley, a singer and banjo player credited with developing the "Stanley Style" of banjo playing, passed away on Thursday (June 23), at the age of 89, due to difficulties from skin cancer. Throughout his career, Stanley received numerous accolades, including an honorary Doctorate of Music; induction into the International Music Bluegrass Hall of Honor and the Grand Ole Opry; and a Grammy for one of his contributions to O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Stanley is survived by his wife Jimmie, with whom he would have celebrated his 48th wedding anniversary on July 2, as well as children Lisa Stanley Marshall, Tonya Armes Stanley and Ralph Stanley II; grandchildren Nathan Stanley, Amber Meade Stanley, Evan Stout, Ashley Marshall, Alexis Marshall, Taylor Stanley and Ralph Stanley III; and a great-grandchild, Mckenzie Stanley.